Within Toronto?s network of well-preserved ravines and valleys, historic rail lines are occasionally found nestled unused on steep, wooded slopes between the upper plateau of residential fabric and the river valley habitats down below. A de-commissioned rail spur ? once used for an industry-focused early 20th-century city ? has evolved into a common passage for hikers and neighbours as it connects the local ravine pathway system to newly developed community areas such as the weekly farmers market at the revitalized Don Valley Brickworks. Upslope, a rare accessible lot lining the western edge of the ravine, some 60 feet above the Bala Line rail path, is the site for a single-family dwelling that engages this alternative connection to the city infrastructure.  
© Bob Gundu

Architects: Williamson Chong Architects

Location: Toronto, ON, Canada

Design Team: Donald Chong, Chris Routley, Shane Williamson, Betsy Williamson

Area: 2400.0 ft2

Project Year: 2016

Photographs: Bob Gundu

Structural Engineering: Blackwell Engineering

Construction Management: Derek Nicholson Incorporated

Millwork: BL Woodworking

Custom Wood Windows And Siding: Fusil

Drawings And Diagrams: Williamson Chong

© Bob Gundu

Within Toronto?s network of well-preserved rav...